The reigning Premier League champions lost 2-1 to Crystal Palace on Monday evening to leave them fourth in the table and unlikely to retain last season’s title.

Their poor defence of that crown has led to increased to speculation over the future of manager Manuel Pellegrini and several of his star players, with Yaya Toure one of those being linked with a move away from the Etihad at the end of the season – with the Express again reporting that Inter Milan are leading the chase.

Carragher, however, believes that the Ivorian is not a ‘spent force’ in the Premier League and remains one of the best midfielders in the English top-flight.

“He’s certainly not a spent force,” Carragher told Sky Sports.

“He was once maybe the best player in the league, certainly the best midfield player. I think he is still one of the top midfield players in the Premier League.”

The pundit also believes that the midfielder is harshly judged because of the performances he has provided in the past, with him having been a major force behind City’s recent title successes.

However, doubts still remain over his defensive capabilities, despite several years in the Premier League, and it is that area that the former Liverpool defender believes major question marks over his ability remain.

“This season isn’t what he has done before but it certainly isn’t a bad one either. I think the question mark over Toure is his defensive work and how much extra work the fella next to him has to do when he is on the pitch.”

Sean Lunt

Sean Lunt is a Journalism and Spanish graduate with a passion for football. As an avid Everton fan he has survived the Walter Smith era, enjoyed the resurgence under David Moyes and is now wholly embracing the Spanish revolution with Roberto Martinez. Away from Everton he follows the rest of the football league and has a particular interest in La Liga.